Hi, my name is Catherine and I am a single mother of four wonderful children.

My youngest, Alyesha (19), has been dancing since she was just four years old. Dance has always been her passion, and she has dedicated most of her life to training, competitions, and performances, with the dream of becoming a full-time professional dancer and choreographer.

After graduating Year 12, Alyesha auditioned for Brent Street Studios in Sydney, one of Australia’s leading performing arts schools, and was accepted into their full-time Advanced Diploma of Performing Arts (Dance Elite) program. This was an incredibly proud and exciting moment for our family, as it reflects years of hard work, discipline, and determination.

Unfortunately, this course is not government subsidised, meaning we are unable to access HECS or other financial assistance. We have exhausted all other options. Alyesha is actively applying for work and has secured student accommodation with a small scholarship, but the ongoing costs remain far beyond what we can manage alone.

The costs involved include:

Tuition fees: $16,000 per year (two-year course, approximately $32,000 total)

Accommodation: $430 per week (including scholarship discount)

Transport: approximately $30 per week

Food: approximately $60 per week

Competitions: costs vary depending on events

Costumes and dance equipment: costs vary

As I am currently on a pension and have only recently been able to return to work due to ongoing health-related issues, I am unable to financially support Alyesha as much as I wish I could. We also have no family support here in Australia or overseas.

All donations will go directly toward Alyesha’s education and living expenses, helping her focus fully on her training and make the most of this once in a lifetime opportunity.

Any contribution, no matter how small, would mean the world to us. If you’re unable to donate, sharing this page would be just as appreciated.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read our story. If you have any questions or queries, please feel free to reach out to me through this page.